Desde Lejos No Se Ve
Los Piojos
The Unseen Struggles of Urban Life
Los Piojos' song "Desde Lejos No Se Ve" delves into the chaotic and often overwhelming nature of urban life. The repeated phrase "Desde lejos no se ve" ("From afar, you can't see") suggests that the true essence and struggles of life in the city are not visible from a distance. This metaphor highlights how the complexities and hardships of daily existence are often hidden beneath the surface, only becoming apparent when one is deeply immersed in them.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life that is constantly in motion, with phrases like "Arriba, arriba, arriba que se te va la vida" ("Up, up, up, life is slipping away") emphasizing the relentless pace of city living. The song describes a world where people are consumed by their routines, often to the point of losing touch with their own humanity. The imagery of a life "embrutecida" ("brutalized") and "enloquecida" ("crazed") underscores the dehumanizing effects of this relentless pace.
Furthermore, the song touches on themes of disillusionment and escapism. The lines about people walking around "muy demente" ("very demented") and the reference to a friend who finds solace in a "frutilla virtual" ("virtual strawberry") suggest a society that is disconnected and seeking comfort in superficial pleasures. The mention of alcohol and the weariness of the narrator reflect a sense of exhaustion and a desire to escape from the harsh realities of life. Ultimately, "Desde Lejos No Se Ve" is a poignant commentary on the hidden struggles and the often unseen emotional toll of urban living.